Explore Orlando and the Surrounding Area

Known as the City Beautiful, Orlando has plenty to offer residents and visitors alike. Whether you're planning a quick family getaway or a bucket list trip with the kids, you'll want to make Orlando your next destination. Discover all the best things to do in the City Beautiful and some fun day trips the whole family will enjoy.

Best Things to Do in Orlando

No trip to Orlando is complete without a stop at some of the city's main attractions. From the parks to the malls, don't miss any of the city's best things to do.

If you're traveling with kids, you'll want to make Orlando's theme parks your first destination. Start with Disney World, which includes four themed park areas, two water parks, and a shopping area. If you love movies and TV, don't miss Universal Studios Florida, where you can ride through the movies, splash around at the water park, and grab a bite to eat.

Whether you prefer high-end shops or small boutiques, you'll find world-class shopping throughout Orlando. Head to the Mall at Millennia for luxury boutiques, or make your way to The Florida Mall for over 200 shops and department stores. If you're looking for a bargain, try one of two Premium Outlets branches in the Orlando area.

Don't miss your chance to catch one of Orlando's teams in action. See the Orlando Magic sink a few three-pointers, or cheer as Orlando City SC scores some goals. If you want to get in on the action, hit the links at one of Orlando's premier golf courses, like the Grand Cypress Resort or the Bay Hill Club & Lodge.

Orlando has no shortage of outdoor recreation opportunities. In the downtown area, Lake Eola Park is the ideal spot for walking, paddling, birdwatching, or catching a show at the Walt Disney Amphitheater.

Family-Friendly Day Trips From Orlando

Whether you've already experienced Orlando's highlights or you want to get out of the city, add a day trip to your vacation plans. The following destinations are just a short drive away.

Only an hour northeast of Orlando, Daytona Beach is home to one of the most popular stretches of sand on the Atlantic coast. Stop by the Daytona International Speedway to see some seriously fast cars, catch a concert, or learn about the history of NASCAR.

For a day trip that will inspire you to reach for the stars, head to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. It's an hour east of Orlando, and you can easily fill an entire day with everything from space shuttle exhibits to the Rocket Garden to the Shuttle Launch Experience.

See the wild side of the Orlando area at the Ocala National Forest, about 90 minutes north of Orlando. Explore the forest's four wilderness areas, hike through swamps and flatwoods, spot wildlife such as alligators and wild boars, and go canoeing or kayaking.

How to Get Around Orlando

No matter where your trip starts, Orlando couldn't be easier to reach. The city hosts countless airport and highway connections to Florida and the rest of the U.S.

Flying into Orlando to start your trip? Orlando International Airport is a 30-minute drive from the center of town and offers seamless car rentals. If you're planning a road trip, consider flying into Tampa International Airport, which is about two hours west, or Jacksonville International Airport, which is about two and a half hours north of Orlando.

Once you're in the city, you'll find it incredibly easy to navigate by car. When you spend time downtown, use one of the many convenient parking garages and explore on foot. When you're ready to hit the theme parks, Disney World is a 30-minute drive from central Orlando, and Universal Studios is a 20-minute drive.

With so much to offer both kids and kids at heart, you won't want to wait another minute to plan your Orlando vacation. Pack your suitcase, find the perfect rental car, and start making your way to the City Beautiful!